Maxx Crosby: The Unyielding Force Behind Raider’s Defence
Maxx Crosby has emerged as one of the most formidable defensive forces in the NFL. The recent "Sack Summit" at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where Crosby played a pivotal role alongside Von Miller and Cameron Jordan, epitomizes his evolution into an elite pass rusher. This annual event, designed for defensive linemen to exchange techniques and strategies, featured Crosby not just as a participant but as a co-host, reflecting his status and respect among peers.
Von Miller reflected on Crosby's growth, saying, "Maxx had been coming here for years, and to see his growth and his development into one of the best pass rushers in the league, he loved my baby like it was his. So, I just thought it was natural just to bring Maxx in… to kind of give [him] a piece of it, just to ensure the life of the [Sack] Summit. I don't know how many years I got left, but Maxx, he's going to play another 10."
While attending the summit, Crosby meticulously filled a notebook with discussions on various strategies, indicating his commitment to continuous improvement. Despite playing through significant injuries last season, including those to his left knee and thumb that both required surgeries in January, Crosby's relentless work ethic and dedication have never wavered. He participated in an astonishing 95% of Las Vegas' defensive snaps last season despite being injured as early as Week 2.
"I was damn near limited every single day, the whole season in practice… I had to learn to make an adjustment because I can't just go out there and run my knee into the ground. I had to be ready for Sunday," Crosby revealed, showcasing his resilience and adaptability.
Crosby's commitment to his craft is evident in his recovery process. He began his personal recovery program on January 22 and has approached it with the same rigor and determination that define his on-field play. "I had to get two major surgeries, and it's been different, but at the end of the day, there's not one street to get to where you want to go, there's multiple," he stated, reflecting his positive outlook and versatility.
Last season was a career-high for Crosby, who posted impressive numbers with 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles. His stellar performance earned him second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection for the third consecutive year. Raiders' senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan, who brings 30 years of football experience, lauds Crosby's talent, stating, "When you talk about Maxx Crosby, you're talking about the best defensive player in the league, probably in the history, that I've ever seen. Now, I've only been around it 30 years, but I mean, he's that good."
This consistency and excellence stem from Crosby's unwavering dedication. "You talk about fight camps [lasting] maybe three months, four months; I do it 365 [days]. So that's why I feel like, at the end of the day, my consistency is what separates myself and it will only keep getting me better because I don't leave any stone unturned," he asserted, emphasizing his all-year-round commitment to his craft.
Off the field, Crosby remains one of two players still on the Raiders roster who played with the team in Oakland, underscoring his loyalty and tenure with the organization. The Raiders have seen a rotation of four coaches since 2019—Jon Gruden, Rich Bisaccia, Josh McDaniels, and Antonio Pierce—resulting in a 39-44 record and one playoff appearance. Despite this instability, Crosby's performance and leadership have remained a constant.
Recently, Crosby received a significant $6 million raise in the offseason, though this did not extend his current contract. His four-year extension signed in March 2022, worth $95 million with over $53 million guaranteed, reflects the team's faith in his value and potential.
Looking forward, the Raiders have placed their trust in new starting right tackle Thayer Munford, with coach Antonio Pierce expressing optimism: "Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team." Crosby's relentless pursuit of excellence continues to drive him. "It made me take a step back so I could take three steps forward," he said, referring to his offseason recovery and preparation. "My one goal is to be the best in the world, pound for pound, and I talk about it, I'm about it, I live it every single day and whatever street I've got to travel to get to where I want to go, I'm going to do that."
Maxx Crosby's journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and relentless pursuit of greatness. As he continues to spearhead the Raiders' defensive efforts, his story is sure to inspire aspiring athletes and seasoned professionals alike.